Overlooking
the southwest coast of India lies Kozhikode or Calicut, the erstwhile
capital of the illustrious Zamorins. Described as “the great province
of Malabar” by the legendary traveller Marco Polo, Kozhikode is
situated on the northern part of Kerala. While the district is
flanked by Kannur on the north, Malappuram on the south and Wayanad
on the east, the frolicking waves of the Arabian Sea lap the western
shores.

Innumerable
versions of how Kozhikode acquired its name abound among the local
populace. According to one such version, the place got its name
from “Cock Fort” (the land where the cock crows). Another version
says that Kozhikode derived its name from Koyil Kotu or Kotta,
which means a fortified palace.

Vasco
da Gama throwing anchor at the port of Kappad in 1498 only paved
the way for other European powers who were to follow in the later
years. The area came under the supremacy of the Portuguese, the
Dutch and finally the British who ruled it till India gained independence
(see Calicut in History of Kerala).

Interwoven
into the fabric of Kozhikode is its glorious history and culture,
making it the favourite destination of history buffs. Though the
present day sprawling city bears little resemblance to the one
of the past, traces of its rich culture are still visible in the
various monuments and museums that dot the district. Kozhikode
is commercially famous as an important centre for textiles, steel
products, seafood processing, timber and tiles. Traditional art
forms have flourished in the district from time immemorial. CVN
Kalari Centre is a well-known centre for the ancient form of Kerala’s
martial art, Kalaripayattu.

The
backwaters of Kozhikode hold tremendous tourist potential because
of their unspoilt charm and natural splendour. The Korapuzha Jalotsavam
(water fiesta), held at Korapuzha has kindled the interest of
sports lovers. Boating facilities are available at Elathur, the
Canoli Canal and the Kallai River. Kozhikode has made it to the
list of tourist destinations because of its unique combination
of historical sites, breathtaking locales and a warm and friendly
ambience.

Places
of Interest

Pazhassirajah
Museum and Art Gallery Administered by the State Archaeological
Department, the Pazhassirajah Museum is situated at East Hill.
The museum houses a mind-boggling collection of copies of exquisite
mural paintings, antique bronzes, old coins. Also on display are
models of temples and megalithic monuments like dolmenic cysts
and umbrella stones. Situated a stone’s throw away from the Museum
is the Art Gallery, consisting of paintings of Raja Raja Varma
and Raja Ravi Varma. The Museum has a substantial number of paintings
by other artists too.